Lewis Barnett Rix Jr.

Lewis Barnett Rix, Jr., 86, passed away peacefully in Fort Worth, Texas, on Friday, July 10, 2026, after a lengthy illness.

Lewis was born on September 28, 1939, in Big Spring, Texas, to Lewis Barnett Rix, Sr. and Lola Belle Stewart Rix. He was raised on the family ranches in Big Spring and Sweetwater, where he developed a lifelong love for West Texas and the outdoors. He was immensely proud of his West Texas heritage, and the values he learned there shaped him throughout his life. An exceptional marksman from an early age, Lewis possessed both a keen eye and a steady hand, becoming an expert sharpshooter. His talent continued during his military service, where he earned recognition and awards for his outstanding marksmanship.

When Lewis was 13 years old, his father passed away, and the family relocated to Lubbock. He graduated from Lubbock High School in 1958, where he attended school alongside fellow Lubbock legends Buddy Holly and Mac Davis. He went on to earn a degree in Management from Texas Tech University, a school he remained proud to call his alma mater.

Lewis spent the majority of his professional career in the insurance industry, building a reputation for integrity, leadership, and genuine care for others. He rose to the position of State Manager for Farmers Union Insurance before spending the final 15 years of his career with Texas Farm Bureau as a District Manager in Nacogdoches. There, he earned the admiration and respect of his colleagues and agents, many of whom considered him not only a leader but also a trusted friend and mentor.

Lewis married the love of his life, Jerene Verkamp, and together they built a family that became the center of his world. They raised three children—Pam, Tug, and Kim—and while he enjoyed a successful career, his greatest accomplishments were found at home. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and an extraordinary grandfather whose greatest joy came from spending time with his family.

In 2004, Lewis and Jerene retired to Granbury to be closer to their children and grandchildren. Their lake house became the heart of countless family gatherings, holidays, and summer weekends. Lewis especially loved taking his grandchildren on boat rides aboard his pontoon boat and watching them enjoy the lake. Hosting family and creating memories together brought him immense happiness. He faithfully attended their sporting events, recitals, school programs, and milestones, offering unwavering encouragement and unconditional love. His steady presence was one of the greatest gifts he gave his family.

Those who knew Lewis will remember him as a genuinely kind, humble, and good man. He possessed a quiet strength, a generous spirit, and unwavering character. He was happiest when surrounded by those he loved and leaves behind a legacy of integrity, humility, and devotion to family.

Lewis is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Jerene Rix; his daughters and sons-in-law, Pam and Dr. Chad Simmons of Dallas, and Kim and Jim Cone of Lubbock; his son and daughter-in-law, Lewis Barnett "Tug" Rix, III and Allison Rix of Fort Worth; and his eight cherished grandchildren: Quatro Cone, Anna Simmons, Rix Cone, Olivia Simmons, Klement Rix, Grant Simmons, Mary Elizabeth Cone, and Alec Simmons.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lewis Barnett Rix, Sr. and Lola Belle Stewart Rix, and by his beloved younger sister, Ruth Walton Guimbellot, whom he adored.

Funeral arrangements pending  

Lewis's legacy lives on in the family he loved so deeply and in the countless lives he touched through his kindness, generosity, and steadfast example. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.